Picture: Incoming Presiding Bishop of The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe
The Methodist Church in Zimbabwe incoming Presiding Bishop, the Reverend S.
Sithole
The Church News Online
Monday, 1 December 2025
“Christ Calls Us to Stand Against Violence: UDACIZA Launches 16 Days of Activism”
UDACIZA today opened the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with a spirited community march from C Junction to Unit L Community Hall, uniting hundreds of women, girls, and men in a collective stand against abuse.
The atmosphere was charged with purpose as participants walked together, holding placards and singing messages of hope. Many described the event as a moment where faith and action met, reminding communities that “as Christians, we are called to protect the vulnerable and speak out against injustice.”
Organisers emphasised that the launch was far more than a symbolic walk. It represented a movement grounded in compassion, courage, and a commitment to safeguarding God’s people. “This fight requires all of us,” one coordinator said. “Our advocacy is our ministry. Our unity is our testimony.”
UDACIZA urged communities to keep the campaign’s momentum alive over the coming days—sharing information, engaging in conversations, and standing firm against all forms of violence.
With prayer, solidarity, and action, the message was clear: a safer, just, and loving society is possible when we walk together.
UDACIZA
#EndGBV #16DaysOfActivism #FaithInAction #VoicesAgainstViolence
Saturday, 29 November 2025
Church Leaders To Reflect On National Budget At Upcoming ZCC Christian Policy Dialogue
T
he Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), in partnership with the University of Zimbabwe, is set to host a 2026 Post-Budget and National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) Analysis Meeting on 1 December 2025 at Kentucky Hotel in Harare.
The platform will bring together church leaders, academics, civil society partners and policy analysts to assess the newly presented 2026 National Budget and the recently launched NDS2 (2026–2030). According to the organisers, the gathering aims to explore how these policies align with Zimbabwe’s development aspirations and the wellbeing of citizens.
ZCC says the meeting will provide space for stakeholders to critically reflect on the country’s economic direction while grounding the discussion in Christian values of justice, accountability and societal stewardship.
Participants will interrogate key questions, including the potential impact of the budget on ordinary households, the feasibility of NDS2 targets, and whether the policies adequately support inclusive and sustainable development.
The Council is inviting Zimbabweans to share their views and contribute to the national conversation by engaging with their social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZimbabweCouncilofChurches
X: https://x.com/zccinzim
The initiative is being supported by several partners, including the World Council of Churches, Zimcodd, the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa, Christian Aid, and the NCA – Advocacy Programme for Africa.
Friday, 28 November 2025
Global Evangelism Drive Brings Hope to Thousands — Palau Celebrates New Faith Commitments
The Palau organization, renowned for its global evangelism work, says the Gospel is reaching some of the most distant and underserved parts of the world, offering hope at a time many people are searching for meaning and comfort.
In a statement released yesterday, the organization celebrated a significant spiritual response across various regions.
“The Gospel is reaching the farthest corners of the earth—right in the moment people need hope the most!” the statement said.
Palau noted that thousands of people embraced the Christian message this week, describing it as a powerful sign of renewed faith and transformation.
“He is moving. He is rescuing. He is changing lives!” the statement added.
The organization says it remains committed to expanding its outreach, partnering with churches and local leaders to ensure the message of hope continues to spread globally.
Thursday, 27 November 2025
ZCC Women Ecumenical Fellowships Mark 16 Days of Activism With Strong Call to End Digital Violence
Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) Women Ecumenical Fellowships (WEF) Greater Harare on Wednesday commemorated the #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence during their annual end-of-year Mubatanidzwa gathering in Mabvuku, issuing a powerful call for action against the rising scourge of digital violence.
Held under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” this year’s commemoration focused on the growing cases of on
line abuse and the urgent need to protect women and girls in digital spaces.
A legal awareness session formed a key part of the event, outlining the different forms of digital violence — including cyberbullying, harassment, image-based abuse, and the non-consensual sharing of information — as well as the legal penalties for such offences. Facilitators stressed that many people commit digital violence unknowingly, underscoring the need for widespread education.
More than 1,500 women attended the gathering and emphasized that awareness on digital violence must reach communities across Zimbabwe. Participants highlighted that unchecked online abuse often escalates into physical violence, making early intervention crucial.
WEF leaders reiterated that every technology user has a responsibility to ensure that digital platforms are not used as tools of harm. “Responsible use of technology is essential in safeguarding the dignity and safety of all women and girls,” the gathering resolved.
The event was supported by partners including Brot für die Welt, the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa, Christian Aid, Tearfund, NCA – Advocacy Programme for Africa, Zimcodd, and the World Council of Churches.
#16daysofactivism2025
#EndGBV
#UNITE
#ConversationsOfHope
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
ZCC Calls for Collective Action as 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Begin
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined the global community in marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, reaffirming its commitment to championing justice, dignity, and equality for all.
This year’s campaign is being observed under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.” The ZCC stressed that as technology increasingly shapes everyday life, efforts to combat gender-based violence must now also extend to online spaces, where women and girls continue to face harassment, exploitation, and other forms of digital abuse.
In its statement, the ZCC said the commemorations present an opportunity for individuals, communities, and institutions to renew their commitment to ending all forms of violence. The church body urged society to stand together, promote safer environments—both physical and digital—and amplify the voices of survivors.
“Together, let us take action to promote justice, dignity, and equality for all,” the ZCC emphasized, encouraging collective responsibility in creating a Zimbabwe where women and girls can live free from fear and harm.
The campaign, running from 25 November to 10 December, is supported by various regional and international partners, including Brot für die Welt, the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa, NCA – Advocacy Programme for Africa, Tearfund, Christian Aid, and the World Council of Churches.
The ZCC concluded its call with a reminder that meaningful change requires unity, awareness, and sustained action.
#16daysofactivism2025 | #EndGBV | #UNITE | #ConversationsOfHope
Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe Statement On International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women
Stand against violence, speak up for dignity
Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we join hands in prayer and action to honor the sacred worth of every woman and girl. 💜 Violence has no place in our communities or hearts. Let’s stand united, speak out, and act in love to create a world where every voice is heard.
Proverbs 31:8 reminds us: 'Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…' Together, we can make a difference.
#EndViolenceAgainstWomen #SpeakUpActInLove #EFZat60 #PrayEngageBuild #PrayEngageBuild
Tuesday, 25 November 2025
YOUR HEALTH
with Fortunate Masikati
Bindura City Corps
Bindura Division
Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are infections or conditions that you can get from any kind of sexual activity involving your mouth, anus, vagina or penis. Another common name for STIs is sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs.
There are several types of STIs. The most common symptoms are burning, itching, or discharge in your genital area. Some STIs are asymptomatic, meaning you may not have any symptoms.
Sexually transmitted infections are highly contagious. If you’re sexually active, you can have or you can pass
STIs are serious illnesses that need treatment. Some, like the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), have no cure and can be life-threatening without treatment.
What is the difference between a sexually transmitted infection and a sexually transmitted disease?
A sexually transmitted infection is the same as a sexually transmitted disease. STI is the most accurate term to describe the condition.
The most common types of sexually transmitted infections include:
Chlamydia.
Genital herpes.
Genital warts.
Gonorrhea (clap).
Hepatitis B.
HIV/AIDS.
Human papillomavirus (HPV).
Pubic lice (crabs).
Syphilis.
Trichomoniasis (trick).
Vaginitis
What are the symptoms of sexually transmitted infections?
Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (sexually transmitted diseases) vary by type. You might not have any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may appear around your genital region and could include:
Bumps, sores, or warts on or near your penis, vagina, mouth, or anus.
Swelling or severe itching near your penis or vagina.
Discharge from your penis.
Vaginal discharge that has a bad odor causes irritation or is a different color or amount than usual.
Vaginal bleeding that’s not your period.
Painful sex.
Painful urination or frequent urination.
In addition, you may also have symptoms throughout your body, including:
A skin rash.
Weight loss.
Diarrhea.
Night sweats.
Aches, pains, fever, and chills.
Jaundice (yellowing of your skin and whites of your eyes).
What causes sexually transmitted infections?
Sexually transmitted infections develop when various bacteria, viruses, or parasites infect your body. You can get these microorganisms from bodily fluids (like blood, urine, semen, saliva, and other mucous-lined areas) during sex — usually vaginal, oral, and anal sex or other sexual activities.
Sexually transmitted infections (sexually transmitted diseases) are contagious. Most STIs pass from person to person by sexual contact through bodily fluids or from skin-to-skin contact by touching the infected part of a person’s body, usually the genitals. Some STIs, like syphilis, can spread while giving birth to a baby.
If you have an STI, it’s important to visit a healthcare provider to receive treatment. Some STIs are curable. You can prevent the spread of STIs by getting tested regularly if you’re sexually active, talking to your sexual partners about your diagnosis, and using protection during sex.
If you’re sexually active, you’re at risk of developing a sexually transmitted infection (sexually transmitted disease).
You can also get an STI if you share personal items like needles that contain your blood. This may occur in the following instances:
Unregulated tattoos.
Unregulated piercings.
Sharing needles while using intravenous drugs (substance use disorder).
A lack of communication due to stigma or shame about having an STI can put you and your partner(s) at a greater risk of spreading the infection.
Sexually transmitted infections can cause lifelong complications if left untreated.
Common complications from untreated STIs include the following:
HIV can lead to AIDS.
Syphilis can damage your organs, nervous system, and infect a developing fetus.
STI complications for females include:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can damage your uterus and cause infertility.
Ectopic pregnancy.
Infertility.
Chronic pelvic pain.
In males, untreated STIs can lead to:
Infections in the urethra and prostate.
Swollen, sore testicles.
Infertility.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral STI . People with HPV may have no symptoms, or they may develop warts or bumps around the genitals. High-risk HPV can even cause cervical cancer.
Most STIs go away after treatment. Some may require lifelong management with medications. You can develop the same STI after it goes away if you get infected with it again.
Many sexually transmitted infections (sexually transmitted diseases) can be cured. Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for all STIs. Conditions like HIV require lifelong care and treatment. You can get an STI again, even after treatment, to cure it.
Prevention
The only way to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections is to abstain from sex (not having sex).
If you’re sexually active, you can:
Use a latex condom whenever you have any kind of sex. If you or your partner has a vagina, use a dental dam for oral sex.
Choose sex partners carefully. Don’t have sex if you suspect your partner has an STI.
Get checked for STIs regularly. Doing so helps prevent the spread of STIs to other people. Ask any new sex partner to get tested before having sex for the first time.
Avoid alcohol or drugs before having sex. People who are under the influence may engage in sexual activities without taking safety precautions.
Learn the signs and symptoms of STIs. If you notice symptoms, visit a healthcare provider quickly.
Educate yourself about STIs. The more you know, the better you can protect yourself and your partners. #SeasonOfPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist online
